Birthday invitation

[Robin451]

Would like some perspective on a situation please

I haven't done anything for my birthday in years and we can't afford a big party so myself and my partner asked our siblings and their partners out for a meal and drinks. 6 of us in total. I sent them a whatsapp message separately explaining we would pay and they don't have to get me a present (times are tough), would just love if they could make it. One sibling replied OK 👌
And the other one has avoided clicking on my message although I've noticed they have been on whatsapp since. Is this rude or am I being a brat?
We generally all get on although I wouldn't say we was super close, when we do see eachother it's like no time has passed and we have a good laugh together.
My social life isn't the best and life has come to a bit of a stop since covid so I wanted to make an effort. I think I just expected a tiny bit more enthusiasm. They both have kids and we don't, so thought it would be a nice break for them and we could all enjoy a nice meal and have a laugh.
All points of view welcome. I'm not a bratty self centered person so if I'm coming across that way I'd rather know. Thank you x

They might not have had a chance to think about it yet. I'd message again along the lines of 'Hi, hope you're well. Are you able to make it to the meal on the 13th? If you could let me know by Friday, that would be great as I need to book the table. Thanks'

If it's an evening meal, they might not have a babysitter available.

How long since you messaged them?

I often 'ignore' messages that i don't have time to deal with properly until later (so they're unread on my phone which prompts me to pick up later). Especially if I can see that
I'll need to check my calendar or similar. But in the meantime I'll send a "on my way now" message or similar, so will show to have been in the app.

So if they're at work or similar I think it's completely reasonable that they've not replied. If it's been longer, just send a "are you able to make it on the 20th?" Style message. Don't overthink it!

It doesn't sound like you are being a brat, no - but whilst you are generously offering to foot the bill for the meal and drinks, they may well have the expense of a babysitter at their end to factor in, assuming they can get one.

Would it be an option to host them at home for a takeaway and let them bring their kids? Not really the night that you envisioned but if you want to celebrate your birthday with your siblings it might be an easier option?

How long since you messaged? Your siblings have more logistics to think about, ie babysitters, so they wouldn’t be in a position to say yes immediately - although if it were me, I’d respond the same day to say ‘ooh, that sounds great, let us see if we can get a sitter’ at least!

Thanks everyone for replying.
It's been a few days since I sent the message. And the meal is in a couple of weeks. Wanted to give them some notice. One sibling gets free childcare from an ex partner and parents, and the others kids are older so don't need a babysitter.
I know it's not a big deal, it's just a meal. Was just expecting some sort of enthusiasm but maybe I need to lower my expectations.

Ok, after a few days, I think it's ok to send a friendly reminder.

Can you call them. Tell them it would mean a lot to you. Find out if there's anything that you haven't thought of regarding childcare or anything else. it's hard to gauge things on WhatsApp. Two weeks away is quite short notice. They may have other plans already and are procrastinating about making a decision since they will have to let someone down.

Thank you for the advice everyone x